Scleroderma Patient Academy – Face-to-Face Advocacy Training in Milan
Milan, 16 May 2025
Full-day training
Patients living with scleroderma face a range of complex challenges that are often underrepresented in healthcare systems and policies. To help close this gap, patient advocates play a vital role in raising awareness, influencing change, and ensuring better outcomes for the scleroderma community. But advocacy is not only about passion—it requires knowledge, strategy, and the right tools.
That is why FESCA is proud to organise a Face-to-Face Advocacy Training in Milan on 16th May 2025—a full day of interactive, high-quality training tailored for scleroderma patient advocates.
This training is held alongside the FESCA Annual General Meeting (AGM), offering a unique opportunity to combine strategic discussions with hands-on advocacy skill-building.
Participants will gain essential insights, practical tools, and strategies to become more effective and impactful advocates at both national and international levels. The initiative will also provide a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow advocates from across Europe, share experiences, and strengthen the collective voice of the scleroderma community.
Training Sessions
- Duties and Responsibilities of Patient Advocates
An overview of the core role and responsibilities of patient advocates, including how to ethically and effectively represent patient communities. - New Legislation: HTA and Patient Involvement
A deep dive into the evolving Health Technology Assessment (HTA) landscape and how patient advocates can contribute meaningfully to these processes. - Digital Medicine: AI & Diagnostics
Exploring how digital health, artificial intelligence, and diagnostics are transforming care—and the implications for patients and advocacy. - Innovative Therapies: CAR T and Stem Cell Transplants
An introduction to emerging treatments and the advocate’s role in navigating and communicating these complex advances.
Why It Matters
Too often, patients’ voices are missing from the conversations that shape their care. Empowering advocates with strong, evidence-based knowledge ensures that these voices are not only heard—but influential. This training is part of our broader mission to build a stronger, more unified movement for people living with scleroderma across Europe.
Whether someone is an experience advocate or just beginning their journey, this is a valuable opportunity to grow, connect, and lead change. Together, we can strengthen the impact of the scleroderma community.
We look forward to welcoming FESCA members and patient advocates in Milan!